Collector Club
Upper Deck has unveiled a brand-new authentication feature aimed at combating counterfeit practices amongst sellers. This initiative, set to debut with the 2023–24 Upper Deck The Cup Hockey set, which debuts on the 4th June, introduces a new level of security for collectors of Rookie Patch Autograph (RPA) cards.
Upper Deck aims to stamp out patch swapping with new authentication initiative
In response to the growing issue of “patch swapping”, where counterfeiters replace original patches with more desirable ones to inflate a card’s value, Upper Deck’s latest innovation allows collectors to verify the authenticity of their RPA cards.
Each card will be slabbed, photographed from multiple angles, and assigned a unique serial number linked to a QR code. By scanning this code, collectors can access a gallery of images showcasing the card’s original state, ensuring that the patch remains unaltered.
This feature empowers collectors to confidently assess the integrity of their cards without the need for third-party verification. Upper Deck President Jason Masherah emphasised the significance of this development, stating that collectors have never been in a position to have confidence in a card’s authenticity before making a purchase until now.
Addressing the challenge of patch swapping in high-value cards
Rookie Patch Autograph cards have become some of the most sought-after items in the trading card market, often fetching significant sums at auctions. However, their popularity has also made them targets for counterfeiters. The new authentication process aims to preserve the integrity and value of these collectibles by providing a reliable method for verifying their originality.
By implementing this system, Upper Deck seeks to protect both collectors and the broader trading card community from fraudulent activities that can undermine trust in the market.
Championing the new imitative, Masherah, added: “This is a game changer for the industry. Collectors. Before you buy an Upper Deck Rookie Auto Patch Card from an auction or a card show, you now have the ability to quickly see on a secure platform whether or not the card remains as we originally created it, without the risk of purchasing a manipulated card or needing to go through the extra step of shipping it to us or a third-party for verification.”
Building on a legacy of innovation in trading card security
Upper Deck has a history of pioneering security measures in the trading card industry, including the introduction of hologram technology in the early 1990s. The company’s latest authentication feature continues this tradition, offering a modern solution to contemporary challenges faced by collectors.
The 2023–24 Upper Deck The Cup Hockey set, featuring this new authentication system, will be available through Certified Diamond Dealer hobby shops and Authorised sports card retailers starting 4th June 2025.
Those who score Rookie Auto Patch cards can visit www.TheAuthority.com to test the Upper Deck Rookie Auto Patch Authentication process using The Authority Authenticator.
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